ARLINGTON — The 13th Canine Musical Freestyle competition at the Country Classic Kennels in Arlington Sept. 6 stood out not only for including a ballet dancer among the dog handlers, but also two men, one of whom was part of a mother-son team.

“It seems like women are more into horseback riding and dog handling,” said Carolyn Money, co-president of the Emerald City K-9 Freestyle Dancers, before laughing, “Maybe we’re more patient?”

Money nonetheless encouraged dog owners of all genders and ages to give canine musical freestyle a try, especially since her group is always looking to grow its membership.

“Dogs’ lives are short, so most of our owners only get about ten years of competition time,” Money said. “With the bigger breeds, it’s even less, since the smaller dogs live longer.”

Money advised those interested in the sport to be willing to devote time to it.

“If you’re dedicated enough, anyone can do it,” Money said. “We perform at nursing homes and dog shows. It’s good exercise, for you and your dog, on rainy days.”

Nearly 20 dogs and their owners from throughout Western Washington and neighboring Canada were put through their paces at this year’s event. Money noted that the competition drew dog owners from Oak Harbor, Vancouver Island and Victoria this year. The group also has members from Eastern Washington and Oregon.

Money explained that musical canine freestyle is a demanding but accessible sport, which requires dogs and their handlers to bond, in order to perform tricks and choreography to music.

The 18 handlers who turned out this year performed not only one-on-one with their dogs, but also in some cases as part of teams of three or four other dogs and their handlers.

To learn more about taking part in canine musical freestyle in the area, call Money at 360-406-4078.